'Incredible' – Former Galatasaray midfielder surprised Osimhen chose Turkiye despite Chelsea interest

Former Galatasaray midfielder Taylan Antalyalı has expressed surprise over Victor Osimhen's decision to join a Turkish club, despite strong interest from Premier League giants Chelsea last summer.

Osimhen, who had been heavily courted by Chelsea during the 2024 transfer window, was widely expected to make a high-profile move to England. 

However, the deal reportedly collapsed due to a failure to agree personal terms, opening the door for a stunning move to Galatasaray instead.

Galatasaray are on the brink of signing the Nigeria international on a permanent basis following his sensational loan spell last season.

The Napoli striker delivered a phenomenal campaign, netting 37 goals and providing eight assists in all competitions, as he spearheaded the Lion to a Turkish Super Lig and Cup double.

Osimhen's performances not only endeared him to the Galatasaray faithful but also cemented his status as one of the most prolific forwards in European football.

His impending permanent move is seen as a major coup for the Turkish giants, especially after fending off interest from Premier League heavyweights like Chelsea.

"I was surprised by Victor Osimhen's arrival last season. I think it was incredible that Osimhen came to Türkiye," Antalyalı told  A Spor, via habersarikirmizi.com.

Osimhen, the Super Lig's top scorer last season, is expected to arrive in Istanbul by Wednesday ahead of his official unveiling as a new signing.

A formal signing ceremony has been scheduled to take place before Galatasaray's high-profile friendly against Lazio at Rams Park on Saturday.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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